A Maytag refrigerator door that does not close all the way, or pops open slightly, lets warm humid air in. You may see frost, sweating on the door or a motor that runs constantly. The causes are simple to check.
The Gasket Test
Shut the door over a slip of paper and tug it. Paper that slides out freely marks a spot where the gasket is not touching the cabinet. Work your way around the whole door.
Common Causes
- Gaskets coated in sticky residue. Warm soapy water usually restores them.
- A gasket that is torn, hard or flattened.
- A refrigerator that is not level, so the door swings open or stays slightly ajar.
- Containers sticking out of shelves or door bins.
Leveling
The front of the refrigerator should sit slightly higher than the back so the door swings closed on its own. Turn the front feet or rollers a small amount, then test the swing again.
What We Look at Beyond the Gasket
- Worn hinges or a sagging door that no longer lines up.
- A cracked cabinet or door liner.
- The condenser area, if the unit has been running hard.
What the Sign Does Not Tell Us
A sweating door or frost near the seal does not prove the gasket is the only cause. We check the seal, the alignment and the cooling together before recommending a part.
If the door sticks to the frame when you open it, that is usually a dirty gasket. If it springs back open, look at leveling and hinges first.
Door and seal checks are part of Maytag refrigerator repair. Tell us what you see around the gasket when you book.